𝐄𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 ♡ - | CHAPTER 67 |

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“What the hell is going on here?”

The voice stops everything. I knew that voice.

What is Mr. Grumpy doing here?

‘Wait… shouldn’t he be the one asking that?’ my brain muttered.

Seriously.

Before I can even process, Ruh quickly gets off my lap, stepping back in a hurry.

Her knee bumps against the table, but she doesn’t even flinch.

My Ruhe got hurt.

I sit upright immediately, tugging at my shirt to fix the creases and trying to look as casual as possible.

“Kunal jiju…” I managed to say, my voice was low.

The room is dim, only a faint hallway light slipping in. Thank God. If he had seen the way Ruh was practically sitting on me, I would already be halfway to my funeral.

I glance at Ruh, but she’s still like a statue beside me.

Maybe he didn’t see anything.
But did he hear something?

Crap.

What if he heard everything we just said?

Kunal jiju stands in the doorway, arms crossed. His expression is unreadable but his eyes are sharp, moving back and forth between the two of us.

Ruh clears her throat, “Bhai, you are early?”

“Early?” His tone is laced with sarcasm. “It’s 3:23 a.m.”

“I am scared,” I whisper, not even pretending to hide it.

“So am I,” Ruh replies quietly.

“You too?” I ask, surprised.

She is never scared of her brother.

“Yes, for you…” she says, still facing forward.

I look at her in horror.

My chest tightens for a second, and I don’t know if I should be flattered that she is worried for me or more terrified.

I blink rapidly, trying to think straight.

My brain decides to step in with the usual nonsense.

‘I will pray for you and always remember you, thank you for keeping me with you-your intelligent brain living in your low-quality skull,’ my brain says dramatically, even in this serious moment.

‘After getting saved from this situation the first thing I will do is sell this brain,’ I mutter in my head.

“What were you doing with my sister?” Kunal bhai asks slowly. His voice is low, controlled, but it’s enough to bring back every fear I have ever had.

“Nothing, Kunal bhai… just…uh… burning calories?” The words leave my mouth before my brain can stop them.

‘Satyanash kar dia pura,’ my brain muttered, absolutely horrified

Ruh turns her head to me and sighs as if she’s lost all hope. Then she pinches my arm without a word.

“Ouch,” I whisper, rubbing the spot.

Kunal jiju’s brows rise slightly, “Excuse me?”

“He means we were walking….It’s good for our health,” Ruh jumps in. Her voice is calm, but there is a little shake at the end.

She leans slightly toward me, “Let me handle this. Don’t you dare to utter anything.”

I shut my mouth.

“At 3 a.m.?” Kunal looks from her to me again.

“Why not?” Ruh straightens her posture. “People walk at night too.”

I nodded.

“In someone else’s house?” His gaze lands on me now, sharp and steady.

He steps forward and gently pulls Ruh by the arm, bringing her closer to him, “I’ll talk alone with saale sahab. Ruhii, go upstairs.”

She turned quickly and stood beside me , “Bhai, no. There is no need to talk alone with him.”

I instinctively grab her sleeve, my fingers tightening around the fabric. Her presence beside me is the only thing keeping me from passing out.

I swear, I feel like I faint at any time.

I am scared as hell right now.

My brain chimes in, not helping, ‘I am scared too, by the way.’

“Ruhanika,” Kunal repeats, a little bit louder now.

The authority in his voice makes Ruh hesitate. But why did he say it loud.

“She doesn’t like it when someone speaks too loudly,” I uttered.

He glared at me, and I quickly clutched the sleeve of her top again.

“Bhaaiii…please calm down…aap budhe ho rhe hain. BP badh jaayega aapka,” she said straight like a fact.

(Please calm down. You’re getting old. Your blood pressure will go up.)

I hold back a laugh. A small one still escapes.

“Sahi bol rahi hai, aapke baal bhi thode thode safed ho rhe hain,” I mumble, smirking slightly to annoy him more.

(Your hair is turning white too)

She turns to me, whispering fast, “Main karu tumhare baal safed? Do minute chup nhi reh skta tumhara muh hamesha kuch ulta sidha bolna rehta hai.”

(Should I turn your hair grey? You can’t stay quiet for even two minutes…your mouth is always busy saying something nonsensical)

I grin slightly looking at her cute angry face as her nose gets scrunched, “Okay, meri bullet train. I am quiet now.”

“Old? Me? Are you freaking serious?” He looked straight at her, his expression offended.

“Prisha bhabhi said it…” Ruh says, shrugging. “I didn’t mean to hear it, but… you know, you both were too loud…ab aap smajah jaaiye.”

I cough once, already understanding what she’s hinting at.

Kunal bhai’s neck turned red as embarrassment crept in, and he let out an awkward cough.

He looked right and scratched his neck muttering, “It’s bad manners to listen to personal conversation of a couple.”

“Right back at you,” Ruh says, folding her arms. “It’s bad manners to listen to us too.”

I raise an eyebrow, arms folded. Yess.

Kunal bhai: 0
My Ruh: 1

“Yes, at least knock before coming in,” I add, still not sure if I am brave or just stupid.

He narrows his eyes at me.

Ruh takes a step forward, blocking me a little with her shoulder as if protecting me, “Bhai, don’t glare at him.”

I lean to the side slightly so I can still peek at Kunal jiju. I can’t lie…I am lowkey enjoying this.

Ruh is protective of me from her brother.

Kunal jiju doesn’t move. His voice is calm again but firm, “This is my house. People don’t randomly show up at 3 a.m. and ‘walk’ around.”

“Can we just end this now?” Ruh says, rubbing her forehead. “We were walking. That’s it. Nothing else.”

“No, I won’t let him off that easily. You, come here,” Kunal bhai said, pointing at me like a strict principal.

I turned back dramatically to annoy him more.

“Jiju, I am serious. Tell me if there is a ghost in this house? Whom are you calling” I said, gasping dramatically.

“You….I am just one step away from sending you out of Earth,” he replied, deadpan.

Excuse me? I raised any eyebrow.

Huhh..My Ruh won’t let you.

“Bhaaaaiii… let’s all calm down and talk peacefully..right?” Ruh said quickly, stepping between us.

We all sat down in the living room.
Kunal bhai looked like a police inspector ready to grill a criminal. Of course who is me.
Ruh sat beside him like a lawyer.

I sat opposite to him.

“So… what exactly were you doing?” he asked.

I leaned back, putting on my best charming smile.

Smile, Vihaan. Use your face. That’s the only weapon you have left. To annoy him more.

“As I said… just spending some quality time with Ruh-anika,” I smirked.

Which was true…..until Ruhs ‘romance off’ switch turned on.

Suddenly, his voice sliced through the room again.

“What the HECK?”

I raised an eyebrow. Calmly.
“Relax, Kunal jiju. Ghutne mein dard ho jayega itna chillaane se,” I said with a grin.

(You’ll get knee pain from all that yelling)

His face definitely does not look so amused.

“Vihaan, you…” he started.

“Bhai,” I smiled sweetly, with fake innocence. “We were just sitting and talking. I would have invited you too, but you always stay in that grumpy mood. Next time we will ask you to join. Now let’s go Vihaan.”

She held my hand making us stand.

He narrowed his eyes, his tone was a little stern, “Wait….sit down, you both. And I don’t like your presence around her.”

Ruh gasped and said so softly that could melt anyone’s heart, “Why? Vihaan is so sweet. He is kind”

I nodded immediately.

Yes, yes. Say it louder.

I mean I know I am sweet. But she is more sweet.

Okay Vihaan, shut up before you melt. Her brother is literally sitting right here.

“No,” Kunal replied. “I just don’t like him.”

“Bhaaaaai! Come on! Don’t be so patthar dil,” Ruh pouted, tugging at his sleeve.

And damn… she looked adorable.

Can I marry her right now?

She stood between us like a teacher separating two 5-year-olds.

“No,” he deadpanned.

“Well, I don’t like you either, but I’m still tolerating you. Bhalai ka zamana hi nhi hai,” I snapped back.

“This man… unbelievable,” Kunal jiju’s voice suddenly cut in low and angry

“Okay enough! Let’s talk normally. No more growling like wild animals,” Ruh said tightly smiling.

She looked at me and i sighed.

“I am ready,” I shrugged. “But your robot brother needs an updated version. This one malfunctions whenever he sees me.”

“At least I don’t sneak into people’s homes,” he snapped, folding his arms.

His arms, btw, looked like they could snap me in half.

Stay strong, Vihaan. My Ruh will save me. Yes.

“Maybe you did in your time?” I smirked. “Old habits, you know…”

I am literally playing with fire right now.

He stepped closer, his voice was low and firm, “Listen, saale sahab. Stay away from her. She is innocent. She is still a child.”

Hold up.
My girl? Innocent? Please.

“Excuse me…
she is not that innocent. You haven’t seen her-” I paused.

WHY did I start saying that out loud?!

Ruh turned to me, eyes wide.
Kunal bhai’s jaw tightened like it wanted to punch me itself.

“Don’t even think about her like that! I swear-” he warned.

In panic, my genius mouth fired another bullet, “At least I wasn’t kissing in a parking lot.”

He paused.

Ruh blinked then smiled like she couldn’t help it.

BEST. COMEBACK. EVER.

AND.

END. OF. CONVERSATION.

“That was different,” Kunal said, looking embarrassed.

“How?” I asked, proudly.

“Because I was dating your sister!” He stuttered.

Oh? Look who’s stuttering now-Dr. Grumpy Robot.

“So…am i,” I started, then shut my mouth.

He blinked.
I blinked.
Ruh blinked.

Before his punch could land on me-

“So YES! We are both adults and just… you know… remembering old memories, right?” Ruh jumped in, rushing through the words.

I looked at her and nodded, “right”

She handed us both water awkwardly like a peace offering.

We glared at each other like two grumpy uncles at a shaadi who didn’t get their favourite sweets.

Five minutes of silent staring later…

“Bhai,” Ruhii said sweetly, “Why don’t you talk nicely to Vihaan? He is nice.”

Kunal jiju scoffed, “I don’t see anything nice in him.”

“That is because your engine wire is loose,” I muttered, sipping my water.

“You little-!” He stood up.

“ENOUGH!!” Ruh shouted, finally losing her calm.

She stood between us again like an angry mom this time, “You both are behaving like school kids. Giving me a headache.”

Both of us shut up. Immediately.

“You-” she pointed at Kunal bhai, “will talk to him nicely, with respect. No more threatening”

“And you-” she turned to me, “no more annoying him with your stupid comments.”

We both nodded like scolded kindergarteners.

“Good. Now sit and talk like normal humans, not WWE wrestlers,” she sighed and put her palm of head dramatically.

And now, we both sat there in complete silence.

No one said a word. Not even a fake cough to break the tension.

Ruh glanced at us and rolled her eyes, clearly done with our nonsense.

Just when things were calming down…
Kunal jiju’s eyes fell on my phone.

He snatched it before I could even touch it.

“What are these pictures doing here?” Kunal bhai asked sharply.

Me and Ruh?
Both Froze like statues.

“Uh…” Ruh started, trying to explain, but one glance from him and she lowered her head, fidgeting with her fingers.

“We were just…” I tried to say something, but my brain went on a break, like literally.

Nothing came out.

“No excuses. Truth only,” he said in a calm but strict tone, arms folded.

Ruh stepped up and took charge, “We were trying to find something about Samar….for the board meeting. Some proof.”

“I was just helping her,” I added, though honestly, my heart was racing like a train.

“You don’t need to,” Kunal bhai said, his voice cold and firm.

“I wasn’t doing it for you. I was helping my Ruh… I mean, Ruh-anika,” I corrected quickly.

He looked between us with suspicion.

I continued, mumbling, “You both act the same, always trying to handle everything alone… sometimes taking help is not bad.”

“I said I’ll handle everything. You two don’t need to get involved,” he replied, deadpan, clearly not in the mood to discuss.

“Don’t be so stubborn, Kunal jiju,” I said, trying to lighten the mood. “With my help, it will be faster.”

“Bhai, can we please work together?” Ruh asked sweetly, eyes full of hope.

“I won’t work with him,” he said flatly, glaring at me.

I rolled my eyes, “kitne nakhre hain aapke. I don’t even know how my sister tolerates you. And for the record. I don’t want to work with a grumpy old robot either.”

“You both are impossible,” Ruh groaned, smacking her forehead.

“Bhaiii, pleaaaseee…” she whined, giving him the classic puppy eyes.

His face twitched. Uh-oh. He was trying hard not to melt, but it was clear…he was caving in.

“Ruhii,” he sighed, brushing her hair gently with his fingers, “I can handle it.”

“Just one time” she said quietly, pouting.

His gaze softened further. Finally, he muttered, “Fine. We’ll work on it together.”

She lit up instantly, “You are the best!”

“But you stay away from her and me,” he warned, pointing at me.

I shrugged my shoulders and smirked plastered over my face, “Staying away from her is tough….but you, Kunal jiju? Trust me…you are not my type.”

He mumbled something under his breath and stormed off to lock a drawer or something.

I chuckled under my breath.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you annoy your future brother-in-law and live to tell the tale.

Just then, Ruh’s eyes landed on a few files lying on the table.

“Bhai, did you take those files?” she asked, stepping forward.

Kunal bhai nodded, flipping through some pages, “Yes. These have details about the drug inventory. A few entries… look suspicious.”

“Can you give me those?” I asked, walking over.

He gave me a long, unreadable look… then silently handed them to me.

I scanned through them quickly.

I knew it.

“Don’t worry,” Kunal said, his voice lower now, more serious. “I already had my doubts about Samar’s actions. But we need solid proof.”

“I have already got access to the system,” I said, tapping the folder. “If I check the version history, I might find the original logs. If those don’t match the signed ones-that’s enough to catch him. But for legal action, we will need more… like a confession or witness and a evidence.”

“Exactly,” he nodded. “Once we have that, we will take it to the board. Personally, I want enough to cancel his license. Then…” his jaw clenched, “…I will pay him a little visit. Just to make sure he remembers never to look at my sister again.”

His fists were clenched.
Yeah. The guy was fuming.

“Honestly?” I said, lifting an eyebrow. “He does need a good lesson. Making sure to throw is brain out of his body for even thinking about Ruh.”

“Both of you!” Ruh snapped, stepping between us with her hands on her hips. “Stop with the violence! We will get him arrested. Which almost cancel his license. That’s it. No drama. We do it the right way.”

We both nodded. Let’s just say it was the most fake nod of agreement in history.

“Go to sleep now. We will continue tomorrow,” Kunal jiju said, standing up.

I nodded and started toward the door when his voice stopped me.

“Wait.”

He squinted at me. “The door was locked. I had to open it with my key. So… how did you get in?”

I froze.

“I….I unlocked it earlier….with my key,” Ruh answered quickly, trying to sound casual.

He turned to her, narrowing his eyes, “Then why would you lock it again after entering?”

“Oh bhai!” Ruh groaned, nudging his shoulder. “You seriously need sleep. You are overthinking. At this rate, you will get grey hair.”

He stared at her for a long second, then sighed.

“I’ll walk him to the door,” he said, forcing a smile at me. “Chaliye, saale sahab.”

Ruh walked beside us, unusually quiet.

Too quiet.

I looked at her out of the corner of my eye. Her expression was unreadable, but her lips were twitching slightly like she was holding back something.

Then, in the most casual voice, she said, “Kunal bhai, I think I heard bhabhi’s voice upstairs.”

He immediately turned his head, eyes scanning the stairs.

And that’s when it happened.

In one smooth, unexpected motion, Ruh turned to me, cupped my cheeks, and bit my jaw. Softly. Then kissed the same spot.

Her lips lingered for a second.

Then she stepped back like nothing happened, winked, and mouthed, “Good night. Sweet dreams of me.”

My brain?

Gone. Just-gone.

Kunal jiju turned back, “No Ruhii… maybe you misheard.”

I just stood there blinking, face heating up.

He then narrowed his eyes at me, “Why are you red? What happened to you?”

“Nothing…it’s just…really hot in here,” I mumbled, fanning myself like an idiot.

“Hmm. Strange. Now get out,” he said, giving me one last suspicious glare before slamming the door shut behind me.

I stood outside the door, dazed.

My fingers slowly reached up to my jaw.

Her lips were still there.

I smiled.

Wait i have to put ladder also to its place.

I entered into my room and took out of my laptop.

Let’s have some fun.

At first, I assumed it would be like any other data breach-get in, find the files, get out.

But the moment I opened his directories, I realized-this guy played well. And not the good kind.

The structure was too perfect. No logs, no typos, not even a misnamed folder. It felt… scripted.

Like someone wiped the slate and made it look natural.

So I launched a basic terminal scan to list hidden directories. Used standard shell commands.

Just scanning for invisible files that normal users never see.

One by one, I bypassed the access restrictions using permission escalation like a cheat code. And then I saw it:

A hidden user profile-SAMRX-0927.

Oh look, a secret character unlocked.

Now it will be fun.

While digging through Samar’s system, I found that his profile was linked to fake investor names and accounts.

Hospital funds had been quietly rerouted to fake shell accounts-empty digital spaces that only existed on paper.

Ruh’s family’s ownership in the hospital? Being erased-piece by piece.

Then I found something strange. A hidden folder.

A file named “RX-NULL:MED.”

It was locked with military-level encryption-32-digit password, 256-bit AES security, decoy folders, and security traps designed to crash the system.

I tried cracking it using a brute-force script, one that runs thousands of password combinations per second. Nothing. Then I attempted an admin override using a root access token I had faked earlier.

That’s when the screen blinked.

The system froze-for exactly 4.3 seconds.

“Damn it,” I muttered.

This fungus.

He really hired real professionals.

It was a security tripwire-programmed to crash the system when someone tried to force access. But it didn’t just block me. It tried to wipe my laptop clean.

This was my precious laptop.

Still, I didn’t back down.

I dug into the system’s debug logs…those messy files developers usually forget to delete. That’s where I got lucky.

One broken line of code led me to a deleted security feed-probably a hallway camera.

I clicked it.

The screen flickered, then went black.

And then….my laptop followed.

Total shutdown.

A red warning appeared on screen: Unauthorized Access. Root Lockdown Initiated. Device Quarantined.

“Ah, perfect,” I muttered hitting my palm on the table.

He people didn’t just protect his files…they coded a virus so aggressively, it didn’t steal your data. It tried to erase your entire system.

It went straight for my root directory…the heart of my laptop.

My baby. I caressed my laptop.

But here’s the thing about being a developer: We don’t panic when things break. We rebuild.

I grabbed my emergency backup-a laptop with no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, totally air-gapped. Clean.

I logged into ViShell, my personal cloud.

Prisha di built it because, well, something isn’t paranoid enough for people like me.

Instead of poking at that virus-infected file again, I focused on what I’d already found-

I didn’t need to touch the corrupted RX-NULL file again. Not yet. I would deal with that later, once I built stronger protection and isolated its malware.

Right now, I had enough.

I compiled everything:

Fraudulent investor records.
Falsified finance logs.
Proof of diverted hospital funds.
Government documentation with forged timestamps.
Ghost vendor invoices.
Tampered logistics reports.

No edits. No drama. Just truth.

I created a clean report.

Then I sent it to-Every hospital board member.

I smirked looking at the screen.

Ahh the satisfaction I am getting.

“Phase One complete,” I said under my breath.

By the time he checks his inbox tomorrow, it will be too late.

Now i can finally have My Ruh’s dream.

•••••

I woke up at 10, eyes half open, head pounding slightly.

Only four hours of sleep.

My phone buzzed. I grabbed it, squinting at the screen.

“Yup, the news hit well,” I smirked.

I stretched, yawned, then walked over to the window where sunlight streamed in. The orchids near the sill were bathing in the light. I gently shifted them a bit to the side and watered them.

“Good morning,” I whispered to those pretty petals like they would actually respond.

After freshening up and getting dressed, I went downstairs.

Dad was already there, giving me the classic side-eye.

I cleared my throat awkwardly and sat down on the chair.

“What?” I asked, glancing at him without lifting my head.

“You look weird,” he said, raising a brow.

“Do I?” I muttered, trying to act normal.

“You know you woke up late?” he said, munching on fruit while looking at me like I’d committed a crime.

“You too?” I shot back, leaning on the counter, too tired to play nice.

He gave me one of his signature glares, “I dropped your mom to school. And after that, the traffic was insane.”

I nodded. Right, Mom had to go early to school because midterm exams had started.

“Hmm. You are working half-day today. Why?” he asked, his tone switching to full boss mode.

“Umm… I was busy,” I said innocently, then added with a smug grin, “Besides, I already did half my work. I am a highly talented person, remember?”

“But can you please ask that woman to chill? She yells at me for breathing wrong,” I muttered under my breath, pouting.

He laughed, shaking his head, “That’s why I kept you under her guidance.”

Ouch. Rude much?

“By the way,” he added casually, “Ruhanika dropped this off for you….breakfast?”

He gestured to the box on the table, and I immediately straightened up like someone just rang the lunch bell.

I opened the tiffin. My favorites. All of them.

I took a bite. Damn. She really cooks well.

“We should open a restaurant together,” I mumbled, chewing.

“Looks nice. Can I have a bite?” Dad asked, already leaning over.

“No,” I said instantly, pulling the box back like it held national secrets.

“One bite?” he tried again, dramatically folding his arms.

“Nope. She made this for me. I won’t share,” I declared, already halfway through the aloo paratha.

“There’s another tiffin though. Same food. See? She knows you can’t finish all that. Must be for me,” he pointed, smirking at me.

I opened my mouth to argue, but my phone rang.

“Ruh,” I whispered, my entire face lighting up like I was in a cheesy rom-com. Maybe I am.

Definitely looked like a fool in love.

She said, her voice was calm and soft,
“Good Morning, Mr. Raichand. Since maam had to leave early for school and uncle got delayed, the blue tiffin is for uncle. Give it to him. And finish everything, okay? And don’t forget to tell me how it was.”

Dad looked at me, smirking.

“Fine,” I mumbled and passed the tiffin to dad half heartedly.

“Enjoy. And love you,” she said giggling.

I coughed and cleared my throat. She chuckled knowing well that I am sitting with dad right now.

“Accha accha I understand,” she said and cut the call.

I can’t reply so i messaged her and then put the phone back.

We sat down and ate in peace.

A rare peaceful breakfast moment in our family.

Since both of us had to leave for the office soon, this unplanned breakfast together felt nice.

“Ruhanika really cooks well, don’t you think?” he asked between bites.

“Yes. She is best in everything,” I said, mouth full, voice full of pride

“Nice. I am glad. Maybe she and I can have a cooking day together. Prisha and your mom never say yes to that. She and I could make a great chef duo, hmm?” He said and nodded as if praising that good is cooked nicely.

“Excuse me?” I said, narrowing my eyes.

“She will pair up with me. You pair up with your wife. She’s my chef partner,” I said my voice was calm and firm, laced with a hint of jealousy.

Wait-was I…jealous? Because she made food for Dad too?

Wow. Get a grip.

I mean..yeah. A little.

“Stop being jealous. You also eat when Adhya ji makes food for me,” Dad said, narrowing his eyes.

“Yeah, but I am her son. And let’s be honest, we both know who eats the food which cooks by mumma,” I said smugly, sipping my pomegranate juice like royalty.

He glared. I grinned.

“Your mother isn’t a bad cook,” he tried to argue like a loyal husband.

I chuckled. He always gets defensive when it’s about Mom. Can’t win debates with him-he has better logic, and even better one-liners.

Mom uses chemistry formulas in her arguments. Dad just wins silently.

I texted Mom a quick reminder to eat breakfast and added a heart emoji. Being the responsible son.

“She even packed napkins… She’s so adorable,” I mumbled as I looked at the bag.

I grabbed my car keys, and Dad followed me as we headed to the car. He will go separately as after office he and mom has to go to attend a wedding.

I sent her a message: Breakfast was amazing, of course it’s made by my Ruh. And yes, we will have a cooking day together. Just the two of us. Only. No third person.

She sent a voice note, confused at first, but eventually said yes.

Then I opened her voice notes-the ones where she always sings a song just for me.

I compiled them all together and made a personal playlist. It’s mine. Only mine.

And every time I play it in the car, it feels like she’s sitting beside me, humming away like the world doesn’t matter.

•••••

I had spent hours in the office, hunched over my laptop, headphones on, deep into the final stages of coding a new game level. My fingers moved quickly across the keyboard, the screen filled with lines of code.

My neck ached. My brain was screaming. But still….I was almost done.

“I’m done,” I muttered under my breath, pushing my chair back and cracking my knuckles.

Right on the cue, in marched Miss Mood-Killer Anaya.

She walked straight to my desk with her usual frown already locked in, “Let me see the module.”

I opened the file and turned the screen toward her.

She stared at the lines of code, then looked at me, “This doesn’t follow the pattern I told you.”

I blinked. Is she blind?

“It’s working perfectly fine. Clean logic, no bugs, smooth run.”

“That’s not the point,” she snapped. “You didn’t follow my instructions. I asked for a loop-based combat system.”

I leaned back, “You also asked for it to not lag. So, I optimized it differently.”

She narrowed her eyes, “I am your senior. Stick to what I said.”

“And I am the developer,” I shrugged, “not your personal robot. Coding isn’t assembling furniture. You give me a problem, I’ll give you the best solution.”

“I have always submitted my work before the deadline,” I said, adjusting my hoodie sleeves. “This is my module, I know what I am doing. If you just let me-“

My phone buzzed.

Ruh.

Oh crap. I told her I would call around this time.

Before I could even respond to the call, Anaya shot me a glare, “I see you are clearly distracted.”

Then she walked off like she owned the floor.

I quickly messaged to Ruh call back later as I had to complete this otherwise she will have another reason to taunt me.

“Why am I only meeting weirdos lately?” I grumbled to myself.

Across the room, I noticed three interns whispering near the coffee machine, giggling and glancing my way.

“Gossiping during work hours, huh?” I called out, raising an eyebrow.

They flinched, and one of the guys spoke up, “No sir! We were just talking about… bugs. Software bugs.”

“Right,” I smirked, standing up and walking toward them. “You can be honest. I hate her too.”

“Honestly sir, she is… always so angry. Like, she enters the office and the vibe just drops,” one girl whispered.

“Exactly. I feel like a character in a horror game when she walks in,” the other one joked, grabbing a coffee cup.

I burst out laughing, “I swear, I am this close to coding a mini boss in our next game that looks exactly like her. Hair buns, angry walks, and all.”

“Please do!” the interns cheered.

I smiled, sipping my lukewarm coffee. This was the only fun part of the office-bantering with them.

Just a few more hours of polishing, testing the levels, them it would be ready for demo.

After wrapping up some work, I finally called her back.

“Got free, Mr. Raichand?” she asked sweetly, her voice soft and cheerful.

I blinked at my phone.

“Don’t ask. Miss Volcano is literally making my life hell…” I groaned, still half-dazed.

“Aww, don’t worry. I can turn your whole life into heaven,” she said with a playful teasing tone.

I can feel my neck heating up as i scratched back of my neck.

“So, what’s got you all chirpy today?” I asked.

“Samar is on a suspension period. The investigation is starting,” she said, with that little victorious sparkle in her voice.

“Wait, what? Seriously?” I nearly fell off my chair.

“Yes. But I am sure he will try to cover things up. We still need that shipment proof,” she added, frowning a little.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair, “I tried once, Ruh. But? That virus hit my system when I accessed the folder. It nearly fried my laptop. My precious baby.”

“Why not ask cyber security for help?” she suggested, her voice turning all serious.

“That would take time,” I said, rubbing my forehead. “And knowing that chimta, he will wipe out the evidence before they do anything. We have got to act fast as now he knows we had circulated all his fraud documents.”

She paused, “one more thing, Board members decided the medical committee will now handle Samar’s case. There’s going to be a meeting soon.”

“Okay, okay. Calm down, meri Ruh,” I said, nodding seriously. “We already have some fraud evidence. And once we get access to that file we will eventually get that evidence”

She hummed and then with a slow voice said, “I should go now, Bhai’s waiting. Send all those details to him, okay?”

“Yes, ma’am. Also, I have gotta get ready for work too.” I replied back and hung up the call.

I did complete all the work which was left.

•••••

I reached her hospital to pick her up and waited in the parking lot. She messaged saying she was free, but she hadn’t come out yet.

I waited a few more seconds, and there she came ….her bag in one hand, and some books in the other.

She looked at me, and I almost walked over to hug her, but someone stopped her.

And i went to her.

She was talking to a guy, he looked nervous, adjusting his glasses again and again.

He was holding a bunch of books and papers.

Just by looking at him, I could tell he is an intern.

“I’m a little tired,” she said politely, her voice calm and gentle. “I hope you understand. For anything else, you can ask Dr. Abhinav. He’ll explain it to you.”

And just when she turned to leave,
“I would rather ask you… I am a little scared of him,” he mumbled.

What the hell, man? She just told you she is tired. Do you need it in writing?

I glared at him from a little distance… but he ignored me completely.

EXCUSE ME.

DO I LOOK INVISIBLE TO YOU?

Did he not see ME STANDING RIGHT HERE?

Am I furniture?

‘You are not even aesthetic furniture, why would he notice you?’ my brain scoffed.

I sighed and folded my arms. Ruh paused, visibly tired, but still gave him a soft smile.

“Okay, let’s do this quickly,” she said.

She opened her notebook and began explaining. Her shoulders slumped a little, exhaustion written all over her face.

I walked up and gently took her bag and notebook from her hands.

She froze for a second… but then relaxed, realising my touch.

I stood behind her like a grumpy bodyguard, arms crossed, glaring at the poor intern.

I mean, there are other doctors in this hospital. He can go to them.

But no, this guy just had to come to Ruh.

“Understood?” she asked sweetly, pointing to the case file.

The intern looked at me, then back at her, clearly panicking, “Ma’am… he is glaring at me. It’s hard to concentrate.”

I rolled my eyes.

“He looks scary when he glares, isn’t he?” she chuckled softly.

“Vihaan, can you please turn around? You are scaring the poor kid,” she added, patting my arm gently.

“But…” I started, but she narrowed her eyes at me, the classic look.

I sighed dramatically and turned around, arms still folded.

She continued explaining. And me? I was just standing there thinking-If this guy says he didn’t understand again, I swear, I will personally teach him. Idiot.

And then…they laughed.

Laughed. What was even funny? This is a medical explanation, not a stand-up comedy night.

“Got it now?” she asked again.

Say yes. Just say yes.

I turned back, giving him the most intense death stare I could manage.

The intern coughed and panicked, “Yes maam. Totally understood!”

And then he bolted like he was being chased by a ghost with a scalpel.

I smirked. Mission accomplished.

“You scared the hell out of the poor kid,” she pouted, walking over and wrapping her arms around me.

She leaned against me like I was her favorite beanbag.

I groaned, rolling my eyes and hugging her tightly, “That intern just stole forty-five minutes of my life.”

“He was just nervous and needed help,” she said, brushing her fingers lightly along my jaw.

“He could have asked someone else. But no. He had to come to you. You were clearly tired and still said yes,” I said.

“Are you jealous?,” she teased, her eyes gleaming.

“Me? No way,” I said, very unconvincingly.

“You look cute when you pout,” she giggled, tapping my cheek.

I tried not to smile at her antics.

I helped her into the passenger seat and tossed her bag in the back.

“Okay, next time, if I am too tired, I’ll say no,” she said with a soft grin.

I nodded like a grump… but inside?

My heart was doing a full-on bhangra.

I hate when guys act extra sweet around her. Even if it looks harmless.
I know that look. I can understand what other person is feeling.

Huff!

And then… I waited.
A kiss?

She turned and walked away.
No kiss?

I blinked in disbelief.

I sighed but got in the car, put her seatbelt she smiled at me and i started driving.

She keeps looking at me and sighing. I can feel it from the corner of my eye.

“Won’t you tell me about your day?” she asked once we were on the road.

I blinked.

Right. I usually give her the whole yapping session and office gossip.

But not today.

Am I an attention seeker?

Yes.
Do I want her attention like a clingy golden retriever?
Also yes.

She sighed, said in a chirpy voice, “Fine, I’ll go first.”

And then she started yapping in the best way.

She told me about assisting her mom in a complicated delivery, the mother’s heart issues, how tense it all was, and how her senior Abhinav and Alia were fighting again.

I smiled at myself. She doesn’t open up this much to everyone.

But with me? She talks. Rambles. Laughs.

And I love it. That only I am the one who gets to see her yapping side.

“Oh, by the way. Siddharth joined today,” she said suddenly.

“Really? That idiot didn’t tell me!” I said, acting all fake-betrayed.

“Now I won’t be stuck watching Alia and Abhinav fight alone,” she giggled.

I just looked at her glowing with happiness.

Like the Ruh I know and adore.

But i keep silent.

“Kya hua?” she asked, catching me staring.

“Nothing,” I replied quickly, snapping out of it.

“Vihaan, suno na,” she said gently, placing her hand on my arm.

That small touch?
My Heart. Completely gone.

“Sunaiye na,” I said with a grin, making her laugh.

“So I was saying… let’s have a cooking night out. What say?” she asked sweetly.

“You want to?” I asked her to look at her and then in front.

She nodded like a little kid.

“Okay,” I said, smiling. And training the steering wheel, “Besides, Mom and Dad are at a wedding. That’s why Dad left the office early. We’ll cook together. Let your brother sulk.”

She laughed again, warm and carefree.

We reached out house, and I helped her out of the car.

At the doorstep, she turned and smiled, “I will be here soon. Wait for me.”

And then she just walked inside.

No kiss.

I stood there, blinking dramatically.

“You forgot something!” I called out – mentally, not out loud.

But she went inside.

I kicked the tire, “Ouch!”

My toe hurts.

Why do I keep doing this to myself?

She forgot to kiss me… HOW COULD SHE?

My brain immediately switched to chaos mode:
Did I do something?
Is she angry?
Maybe I annoyed her.
Or maybe I am just dumb.

My brain immediately began overthinking.

Great. I am spiraling. Again.

Huff!!

I grabbed the parcel boxes from the car. Which prisha di had ordered, but the delivery guy couldn’t deliver here, so I had to go and get them myself.

As soon as I stepped inside my house, I muttered, “Damn it, you scared me.”

Prisha Di was casually sitting on the couch with a green face mask on.

“You came late,” she said without even looking at me properly.

“You really look like a witch with that on… Anyway, where should I keep this?” I asked, struggling with the heavy box in my hands.

“Hnn… just keep it in that corner,” she mumbled, her voice muffled.

I walked over to the corner and placed the box down. Just then-

“Mammmmmuuuuuu!”

I heard that chirpy voice and turned around with a big smile to scoop up my little tornado.

“Aap itna late kyun aaye?” he asked, folding his arms.

(Why did you come so late?)

“Umm… your Mami took a lot of time,” I whispered playfully, and he frowned.

“Par aapne bataya hi nahi meri Mami kaun hai,” he whispered back curiously.

(But you didn’t tell me who my mami is?)

“I’ll tell you later, baby. It’s our secret, don’t tell anyone,” I smiled, and he nodded cutely.

Just then, I spotted prisha di gently rubbing her baby bump.

“Hey little one,” I said, admiring her adorably chubby witch look.

She honestly looked like a cute little witch with that chubby cheeks.

“Di, why are you even here?” I asked, picking a brownie from the table.

She slapped my hand, “That’s mine!”

“And why can’t I be here? This is my house too,” she said sassily.

I narrowed my eyes, “Did you have a fight with Kunal Bhai?”

“Naam mat lo unka!” she shouted, glaring at me.

Okay…serious issue alert.

“Tell me what happened,” I asked, moving behind her to gently massage her shoulders.

She was trying to hammer her own shoulder like it would solve the pain.

“He scolded me today,” she complained, sounding like a dramatic TV serial actress.

“Kunal jiju? Scolded you? That doesn’t sound like him,” I said, surprised.

“I asked him for a samosa, just one hot, perfectly spicy samosa and he handed me a baked multigrain triangle stuffed with peas,” Prisha di groaned, arms folded like a grumpy queen whose royal feast had been replaced with boiled oats.

I laughed at her.

“Said it’s ‘better for me and the baby.’ BETTER? I wanted flavor, not a lecture!”

“Di, he’s just concerned about you. The doctor already said no junk food. You know how stressed he was during your last check-up,” I said making her understand.

She paused, as if replaying the tragedy in her head, then continued, “And when I told him I wanted to try pickles dipped in chocolate syrup-he made a face like sada hua tamatar….”

“Ewww….pickle dipped in chocolate syrup that’s the worst combination,” i muttered.

Damn it. I can’t even imagined.

She rolled her eyes dramatically, “I told him to take just one bite, just to prove me wrong and said ‘your taste buds are getting weird day by day’ and he ran out of the room. Literally ran.”

“Where is the lie?” I muttered and she hit my arm.

She looked down at her bump with an exaggerated pout, “You hear this, baby? Your papa denied me a samosa and ran away from pickles and chocolate. I hope you inherit my tastebuds, not his extra healthy salad ones.”

“He didn’t scolded you, di, he just said about your taste buds,” I said sitting beside her.

“No he scolded me,” she pouted.

Her mood swings made my brain freeze.

It’s more dangerous than Atharv’s time.

Pickle dipped in chocolate syrup. Eww..!!

I nodded, trying to calm myself until the bell rang.

I knew exactly who is the person and fixed my hair.

I opened the door but my mood fell as i saw him.

“What?” I asked.

“Mujhe meri biwi chahiye,” Kunal Bhai said without even moving or blinking.

He looked… fresh. Wet hair. Probably took a shower. Sanitized, too.

“I think she is still mad at you,” I said, stepping aside to let him in.

He didn’t wait for another word and walked right in.

What the… anyway

I was about to lock the door when suddenly-“Bhoo!”

Ruh popped out from nowhere, but I didn’t get scared.

“You are no fun. You didn’t even get scared,” she narrowed her eyes, folding her arms across her chest.

I tilted my head slightly, letting a lazy smirk form, “Oh. And Iam supposed to tremble because of your dangerously sweet and insanely tempting voice?”

She stepped closer, her eyes narrowing like a playful predator, lips curling into a slow, wicked smile, “Well then… maybe I should use that voice to make you tremble for real.”

I looked at her blinking definitely not expecting this from her.

She tilted her head innocently, her tone playfully challenging, “Did it work?”

I shook my head with a soft smile, not giving her the satisfaction, “try more.”

She rolled her eyes, but then suddenly grabbed my hand, “Come inside. And close the door.”

I closed the door and followed her, letting her lead. We walked into the living room-Tension.

Real, thick, could-cut-it-with-a-knife kind of tension.

“Ruhii!” Di called out dramatically, waving her arms.

Ruh blinked in surprise but quickly composed herself and sat beside her.

“You know what he did today?” Di gasped, clinging onto Ruh’s hand like she was seeking emotional rescue.

On the other side, Kunal Bhai had his eyes closed, taking a long, deep breath, as if silently praying for patience. His jaw tightened, a muscle twitching near his temple.

I know. I know. How hard is tolerating my sister.

“He doesn’t love me anymore. Go away from here!” She threw her hand toward him.

Kunal Bhai opened his eyes, calm but firm, straight looking into her eyes, “Do I need to show you in front of everyone just how much I love you?”

I coughed and looked away, awkwardly clearing my throat.

Ruh turned toward me, eyes wide, and mouthed, “let’s go.”

I nodded.

“You two carry on,” I said and bolted into the kitchen.

I picked up a knife and started chopping vegetables.

The sound of the blade hitting the board echoed in the quiet kitchen. Their drama would pass in minutes, I knew.

Then, a soft cough.

I didn’t turn.

“Naaraz ho?” Ruh’s voice floated across the counter.

I kept my eyes on the vegetables in front of me.

“You don’t look good with that sulky face,” she added, leaning her elbows on the kitchen counter, her voice trying to sound playful.

I didn’t reply.

She tilted her head, her tone dipping lower, “Did I do something?”

I finally looked up, meeting her confused eyes.

“Don’t you remember?” I asked quietly.

Her brows pulled together, “I didn’t say anything wrong?”

I exhaled, letting the knife fall still.

But I didn’t look at her.

She leaned forward suddenly, “Okay, I know this is super cringe, but still-“

Before I could ask what she meant, she pressed a soft kiss to my jaw.

“Did that help calm your inner tantrum?” she asked, her lips brushing against my skin, her smile playful.

I bit the inside of my cheek, trying not to let my grin show.

“Vihaaaaan,” she whined, clutching my arm, swaying slightly. “Bolo naaa.”

Normally, I was the clingy one. But today-she was all over me.

And I was so not complaining.

“You are such a stupid chimpanzee,” she muttered, leaning her forehead on my shoulder.

I stayed silent, wiping the counter like I was busy.

She pouted and turned away. “Fine, Mr. Raichand. Be in your grumpy mood. Mai jaa rhi hu.”

Mr. Raichand? Okay now.

Before she could step away, my hand moved instinctively, fingers wrapping gently around her wrist.

In a single, fluid motion, I tugged her back, spun her around, and effortlessly lifted her onto the kitchen counter.

She gasped, eyes widening, hands clutching the edge of the slab to steady herself.

“What are you doing?” she asked, voice soft, breathless, almost trembling.

I stepped closer, letting my hands glide to her waist. I gently parted her legs and stepped between them, my thumbs stroking slow on her skin.

“Kaha ja rahi hain, aap?” I whispered, my voice dipped low, laced with heat and tenderness.

She drew in a sharp breath as I leaned in, our foreheads brushing-lightly, deliberately. The air between us sparked like static, but slower…deeper….almost sacred.

“Yehi kareeb rahiye hamare,” I murmured against her cheek.

She looked at me with those hazel-brown eyes-wide and shocked.

There was a storm in them, but it was gentle…like a monsoon rain kissing dry earth-craving and surrender all at once.

Her lips parted slightly, but no words came out.

Just breath.

“Itna kareeb…. ki fark hi na rahe, saansein aapki chal rahi hain ya meri, “I lowered my head, lips brushing the shell of her ear before placing a kiss there soft, reverent, and dangerously slow.

She trembled beneath my touch. Her nails curled into my shoulders, through the fabric of my shirt, gripping like she couldn’t anchor herself fast enough.

Her breathing turned uneven, her chest rising and falling with every heartbeat.

And then her eyes met mine-

Without a word, she reached up.

Her hands curled around my neck,
fingers slipped into my hair, pulling me in until our bodies aligned fully, intimately, as though we belonged this close.

“Itna kareeb theek hai?” she whispered, her voice husky, her nose brushing mine in the softest nudge that felt more like a challenge than a question.

My pulse skipped.

“ya aur?” Her lips hovered at the corner of mine, teasing, breathing me in but refusing to land the kiss just yet.

“Boliye, Mr. Raichand,” she whispered again, slowly tracing her finger along my jawline like she was drawing fire beneath my skin.

My muscles tensed, every inch of me alive with anticipation.

Then she leaned in and kissed the side of my neck-slow and deliberate, her lips pressing in with a sensual intent that made the air vanish from my lungs.

And when she pulled back, the familiar stain of her lipstick bloomed on my skin like a mark she wore proudly.

Of course. Her favourite hobby.

I slid my hands around her waist, tighter now, fingers spreading across her back as I pulled her closer like I was trying to fold her into me, erase all space between us.

My fingers slid along the outside of her thighs, the soft fabric of her pants warm beneath my touch. Even through the material, I could feel the heat of her skin, feel the way her body responded tightening around me, arching ever so slightly forward.

She let out a soft, involuntary moan, her hands flying to my hair, fingers weaving in deep.

“Vihaan…” she breathed softly, slowly-breathless like my name was the only thing she could hold on to. It sounds so beautiful on her lips.

I stood up straighter, grabbing her waist more firmly and pulling her to the very edge of the kitchen counter.

She clutched the edge behind her, steadying herself, while her legs locked loosely around my torso, dragging me even closer.

Her off-shoulder knit top had slipped slightly on one side, revealing the soft curve of her collarbone and the faintest glimpse of her chest.

The kitchen lights spilled across her skin, highlighting every curve.

I leaned in and kissed the exposed skin there….slow, lingering.

She shivered.

“Still thinking about walking away?” I murmured, my lips brushing just above her hem of top.

She let out a breath and smirked, “Yes I would have…if only your mouth wasn’t so convincing.”

I let out a low laugh, brushing my thumb along the curve of her cheek, “Oh really? Then maybe I have been too polite.”

As I whispered it, my hand reached for the neckline of her top-fingers brushing across the fabric. I tugged it down gently, just a little, exposing a few more inches of skin.

I looked up at her once. Her lips were parted. Waiting. Breathless.

I leaned down, pressing a kiss just above her heart-slow and deliberate.

Then another, this time with more pressure, yet still gentle.

And another. My mouth trailed lower, lingering over her skin, trying not to hurt her.

There was a faint bruise already forming. Then, without fully thinking, I pressed my mouth gently to the spot to soothe it.

Until I left a mark.

She gasped softly, her fingers tightening in my hair.

My lips lingered a second longer on the spot before I finally pulled back, brushing my fingers softly over the now-reddened skin.

I pulled back, admiring it. That mark.

Then, with a touch more gentleness than necessary, I tugged her top up, covering the mark I had just left.

For a moment, silence. Just her eyes on mine.

“Tell me why you were angry,” she whispered, voice barely above a breath.

“You forgot to kiss me,” I muttered under my breath.

She blinked, “Wait, seriously? That’s why?”

“You are getting old and forgetting things,” I teased, flicking her forehead.

Her mouth fell open in horror, “You nasty, stupid homo sapien! How dare you call me old!”

She lunged forward like she was about to bite my lip but I was faster, slipping a piece of cucumber slice into her mouth instead.

She narrowed her eyes at me and i winked at her.

“MAMMMUUUUUU!”

We pulled apart and i sighed.

Ruh fixed her hair and clothes quickly as Atharv ran in, full speed.

Like father like son.

“Bua aap kab aayi?” he asked, hugging her tight.

“Just now, baby,” she replied sweetly, lifting him up and kissing his cheek.

I looked at her nervously.

Did he see anything…?

“Umm, Atharv, what do you need?” I asked, voice an octave higher.

“Juice!” he grinned.

I nodded and turned to get it.

As I passed Ruh, she whispered, “I don’t think so… he saw anything.”

Thank God.

While Atharv sipped juice and chatted to Ruh about school and superheroes, I stepped outside and spotted Kunal

Bhai massaging Di’s shoulders, looking peaceful.

Oh finally they sort out everything.

“Vihaan, come. I’ll help,” Ruh said, entering the kitchen again and washing her hands.

I stared at them, my gaze was soft, “Your brother acts totally different in front my sister.”

“Like how?” she asked, slicing a tomato.

“So calm. And with me, he looks like he will launch me into outer space. Why does he hate me so much?” I muttered knowing if he will participate in glaring competition he will definitely win.

She chuckled, “Trust me…he doesn’t hate you.”

Only i know how my heart shiver infront of him just because of his glares.

“Stop. Just sit down,” I told her.

“I want to help,” she narrowed her eyes pointing at me.

“No,” i declared.

She rolled her eyes.

“I am cooking with less spice for Di. What do you want to eat?” I asked her.

She tapped her chin dramatically, “Hmm….I am craving something spicy.”

I smirked and started gathering spices, “Fine. Sit. I’ll do everything.”

“I can cook, you know,” she pouted.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Sit anyway,” i told her.

She hopped up on the counter again, unwrapped a chocolate bar, and started munching and tore it into half, feeding me also in between.

Minutes later.

I was casually stirring the curry when I noticed it-her stare.

She wasn’t blinking.

I raised an eyebrow without looking at her, “You are staring. What’s cooking in that pretty little brain of yours?”

Ruh leaned back against the counter, arms crossed, wearing that wicked smirk of hers, “You really want to know?”

I squinted at her suspiciously, still stirring, “That depends. Is it going to give me a heart attack?”

She chuckled and then dropped a bomb that nearly made me drop the ladle, “I was just imagining… me waking up and then seeing you shirtless, cooking in the kitchen. How would you look???….uhmm…you would look like a sweet morning dessert I wouldn’t mind devouring before breakfast.”

She winked.

I choked on nothing but air.

I gripped the counter like it could save my soul.

My brain was short-circuited.

My body temperature is raised up by five degrees and I wasn’t even standing near the stove.

Sweet morning dessert?

Is this girl trying to kill me? With her words?

I glanced at her.
She was still standing there calm, casual as if she hadn’t just said those words.

Damn it. I feel like I am gonna faint.

“Ruh…are you okay? I Mean-are You Normal?” I muttered in horror.

She burst into full-on laughter while I stood there red-faced, seriously considering diving headfirst into the curry just to cool off.

But she wasn’t done.

She walked over slowly, each step like a countdown to a disaster. Her eyes gleamed with pure mischief. She tiptoed slightly to match my height and leaned in close to my ear.

Her breath tickled my skin.
Her voice dropped into a sultry whisper, “I am just… craving some deliciously hot Raichand.”

I sucked in a sharp breath.

All I wanted in that moment was to scoop her up and take her straight to the bedroom.

But no.

Her overprotective brother was sitting outside like an uninvited bodyguard of purity. If he caught even a whiff of what was going on, he would turn me into curry and stir me himself.

I pointed the spatula at her.

She raised an eyebrow, full of playful challenge, her hazel-brown eyes now practically daring me.

I swallowed but still smirked at her, “Fine. I’ll serve you hot Raichand… in your bedroom.”

It slipped out before I could stop it.

She quickly put her palm over her mouth to muffle her laugh. Although I could see the pink tint on her cheeks.

“Okay. I’ll wait for you,” she whispered, playfulness dripping from her voice like honey.

I cleared my throat.

Where the hell she is learning those things?

“Serve what?”

We both froze hearing the voice.

Ruh’s eyes widened in horror.

I could practically hear her soul leaving her body.

We turned.

Kunal jiju was standing at the kitchen entrance.

“F-food!” Ruh stuttered.

Yeah, jiiju. That food is me.
Your innocent little sister is craving me like I’m a sweet dessert and she’s gonna devour me.

One day this man is going to need serious therapy when he finds out what his little innocent sister actually thinks.

Kunal bhai’s brow furrowed, “Fine, whatever it is… serves me too.”

I choked so hard I saw stars.

Ruh visibly flinched.

THE HECK.

She flung her arms wide standing in front of me like a human shield, panic scribbled across her face, “Never! Bhai Don’t you even think about it!”

Kunal jiju raised an eyebrow, now thoroughly suspicious, “What?”

I quickly cleared my throat and tried to act like a normal functioning human being, “She meant… we will serve the food. Once this curry is ready.”

Ruh nodded….too fast like a student faking confidence in a viva exam she hadn’t studied for, “Yeah. Food. That food. Totally edible and normal.”

Kunal jiju stared at both of us like we’d grown extra heads, “Did you two hit your heads or something?”

We didn’t respond.

We turned back to the stove like two guilty chefs suddenly devoted to world peace through cooking.

Note to self: Never flirt in the kitchen again.

At least not when her brother is within a 10-mile radius.

He again raised a very suspicious eyebrow but eventually shook his head.

“I came to help. It’s dinner time,” he said and stepped in.

“Dont worry it’s already done just salad is left,” i murmmered.

He examined and took the vegetables to prepare the salad.

“I need to talk to you guys.”

“Where’s Mumma and Dad? They won’t come today” Ruh asked, wiping her hands into the kitchen towel.

“They will stay in hospital. But the board meeting is the day after tomorrow,” He dropped a bomb.

“What?” we both yelled in unison.

“Yeah. The medical board will officially review Samar’s case. So we need that evidence as soon as possible proving that he is been shipping out cheap, unauthorized medicines through his pharma company,” he continued.

“I am sure Samar had help. That’s why the board is even entertaining his side,” I said, stepping forward.

“And I think I know who helped him,” jiju added, looking at me.

I met his gaze, serious, “So do I.”

And just like that…I wasn’t alone in this anymore.

“Let’s have dinner now. Prisha is hungry, and I don’t want her to wait,” he said, already starting to set the table.

We all sat down. Ruh had already fed Atharv since the little tornado took forever to eat and always threw tantrums.

While we were eating, Prisha Di suddenly passed over a weird-looking bowl.

“Try this!” she said cheerfully. “Pickles dipped in chocolate syrup. It’s amazing.”

I looked at the bowl, then at Ruh. She was already shaking her head, horrified.

Me too.

“No way,” I muttered.

“What’s wrong? Just try it! It’s actually really tasty!” Di insisted.

“Kunal aap try kriye,” she said to him.

And He looked absolutely unsure, “Uh… I…”

“Kunal…” she called again, drawing out his name sweetly, her face faltered a little to which he saw and gulped.

He sighed, “Fine. Just one small bite.”

She grinned, dipped the pickle generously in the syrup, and passed it to all three of us.

Ruh and I looked at each other with panic in our eyes.

We both had the same thought-we are not eating this.

But Kunal jiju?

He actually took a bite.

I watched in horror, passing him a tissue just in case he needed to spit it out.

But nope.

He ate the whole piece.

How can he?

“Is it good?” Prisha Di asked eagerly.

He swallowed, forcing a polite smile but saying it honestly, “Not bad. Just… not really my taste.”

Then he coughed slightly.

Prisha di immediately offered him water and a brownie, “Here, eat this. It will fix the taste.”

He took them without complaint.

“I am sorry. I shouldn’t make you eat this,” Di said, rubbing his arm softly.

He smiled and shook his head, “It’s okay.”

Just like that dinner ended with Ruh quietly started putting all peas onto my plate when no one was watching.

Some things never change.

Her eternal war with peas continues.

•••••

After we finished dinner, I was in the kitchen doing the dishes and Ruh was helping me cleaning and putting the things to their place.

The house was quiet now, except for the faint murmur of voices from the living room.

Just then, Prisha Di called out, “Vihaan, come with us. I need your help with something related to the office.”

I wiped my hands and turned toward her.

“Di, you should rest. Papa and I can handle all that,” I said gently, walking toward her and instinctively checking her forehead for temperature.

Thankfully, her health had been improving. The last two months had been nothing short of exhausting for her with mood swings, stress, and pregnancy complications.

But now, she is recovering well.

“I know, that’s why I was just going through a few documents. I found something important and needed a bit of help,” she said, holding up a small bunch of papers.

“If my biwi is saying it, why don’t you just come ?” Kunal Bhai said in his usual robotic tone.

He didn’t wait for a response and simply walked back toward his house with di.

I let out a sigh and quickly locked my front door before following them.

“Chaliye,” Ruh said cheerfully, appearing beside me with a mischievous smile.

I took a step back and gestured, “Pehle aap.”

After closing the main gate behind us, we walked inside. It was almost 10 p.m.

She giggled at my act, but the second Kunal Bhai turned around to glance at us, we instantly took a step apart like two kids fighting for sitting on window side seat.

Inside, Di made me sit down and handed me some files.

“Okay, Vihu, listen,” she said, pointing at the document. “Dad told me about the project, so I’ll walk you through it. This presentation is important. Since our company mostly works with software systems, game development is a new space for us.”

“That’s why you have to explain the idea clearly, show what makes it different, and also test all the modules. The client might hesitate, but if your proposal is solid, they will definitely consider it.”

She handed me a few files, “I found these resources for you. Go through them before you start. It’ll help you shape your presentation better.”

I nodded, half-understanding, but trying my best to keep up.

It’s already been an hour and my mind is spinning.

“Di, can we take a break now? You’re being too harsh on your poor brother,” I muttered.

She raised an eyebrow, “It’s my job to make sure everything’s perfect. I won’t let you submit anything half-baked.”

I smiled sheepishly, “Yes, maam.”

She handed me another file, “Here, I even found this reference for you. I have been searching all evening.”

I looked at her, feeling touched. Aww, she’s actually really sweet sometimes.

“Okay, but let’s finish the rest tomorrow,” I said, closing the file.

She shook her head at me but didn’t argue, returning to her work.

Finally free, I walked downstairs to grab a glass of water… but just as I turned the corner, someone grabbed my wrist, pulled me into a side room, and gently pushed me against the wall.

My eyes widened.

“Whoa! Where do you even get that kind of strength?” I asked, startled.

Ruh just smirked.

“Madam, your intentions don’t seem very innocent right now,” I teased, narrowing my eyes. We were standing in a dim hallway, completely hidden from view.

She stepped closer, eyes gleaming with mischief.

“Why do you look so irresistible tonight?” she whispered.

I raised an eyebrow.

“Because I am irresistible,” I replied with a smug grin.

She gently traced her finger along my jawline, sending a chill down my spine.

I dramatically placed my hand on her forehead, “Do you have a fever?”

She laughed softly, “Just answer me…are you free this weekend?”

“Not this one, but I’ll be free next weekend. Why?” I replied.

She stepped even closer, wrapping her arms around my neck while I rested my hands on her waist, lightly playing with the sleeve of her off-shoulder top.

“If I take three night shifts in a row, I can get next weekend off,” she whispered. “Then you’ll be all mine-day and night.”

Another wink.

I looked at her, half-shocked at how bold she was being.

She leaned in, her lips were just inches from mine when-

The doorbell rang.

Ruh dropped her head onto my chest and i softly chuckled.

I sighed, staring toward the door with the most dramatic expression possible.

I peeked out and saw Kunal jiju opening the door.

And of course, it had to be the last person I wanted to see.

What the hell she is doing here at this time.

I instinctively held Ruh’s hand, trying to calm the storm inside me. She gently squeezed my hand in return.

I swear, just the sight of that woman made my blood boil.

“Kunal, move aside. I need to come in,” Bua ji said sharply, stepping forward.

“As far as I remember, I didn’t invite you,” Kunal jiju replied, crossing his arms firmly.

“I left some documents in Chacha ji’s room the last time I was here. I just need to collect them,” she said, her smirk revealing the poison in her words.

“Dadu’s room is locked, and the key is with Mom. She’s not at home,” he replied coldly. “So, with all due disrespect, take a U-turn and leave.”

Prisha Di laughed under her breath.

Bua ji shot her a deadly glare but rolled her eyes instead.

“Well, it’s been so long since I came. Let me at least sit down. And anyway, I am very tired and I need rest,” she said, flashing a devilish smile, and pushed past Kunal jiju.

He muttered some words under his breath.

Then she called out cheerfully, “Samar, come inside!”

WHAT THE ACTUAL HELL.

That fungus walked in, and I swear I felt my patience crack.

Ruh tightened her grip on my hand again.

I slowly rubbed the back of her hand with my thumb, trying to calm her and myself.

“What’s he doing here?” Kunal Bhai asked, his voice laced with irritation.

“He just dropped me. My car broke down,” Bua ji said nonchalantly as Samar stepped in like he belonged.

The moment his eyes tried to search for Ruh, I moved. I stepped in front of her, blocking his view.

You don’t even get to look at her.

“I didn’t know you would have fallen so far…from doctor to driver nice promotion,” Prisha Di said with a sweet but deadly smile.

Samar fakely smiled.

“I just needed something from my cabin. That’s why I went to the hospital. And met Mrs. Verma she needed help, so I came here,” he muttered.

“You are suspended. Your cabin is locked. You are not even allowed near that area…you know that,” Kunal Bhai replied bluntly.

“I just needed one small file. It’s kind of a personal thing , Dr. Kunal. And I’m allowed to collect my personal stuff,” Samar smirked.

“Leave all that. Samar beta, sit down,” Bua ji said with false sweetness, acting like the perfect host.

Then her eyes turned to me.

“And why are you here?” she asked, her tone drenched in poison.

“Excuse me?” Prisha Di snapped, standing straighter.

“I mean… Kunal, look at Ruhanika’s age. It doesn’t look good to have a strange man staying this close to an unmarried girl. You never know what someone’s intentions are…” Bua ji said, her concern was fake and her tone was filled with poison.

Before Ruh could even respond, I held her hand.

But my Di was already on fire.

“Definitely not like your intentions, always spreading poison. And for the record…my brother is better than any man out there. Don’t you dare question his character,” she shot back and looked at samar for millisecond.

“There’s still no reason for him to be here,” Bua ji said coldly, eyeing me.

“It’s his house too. He can come whenever he wants,” Kunal Jiju said calmly.

Wait… did he just defend me?

Well, that was unexpected. But I liked it.

“Well, you can’t expect good behavior from the daughters-in-law of this house anyway,” Bua ji scoffed. Then she turned sweet again. “But Ruhanika, beta, go make some tea for Samar. He’s a guest, after all.”

Ruh didn’t move.

I gently guided her to the couch and made her sit.

“I am talking to you, Ruhanika. Where are your manners?” Bua ji snapped.

Witch.

“She is not your slave,” kunal bhai said through clenched teeth. “If you want tea, make it yourself.”

“You both forgot how to respect elders,” she hissed and stomped to the kitchen.

Just then, we heard Atharv calling from upstairs.

“Atharv!” Prisha Di called out and walked to upstairs.

“Wait, let me help you,” he said, holding her hand to guide her up.

Kunal Bhai looked at me. I nodded, silently promising I would d stay with Ruh.

Samar glanced toward us. I didn’t care.

I took Ruh’s hand and walked her upstairs to her room.

Let them stay here.

“Why is he here?” Ruh whispered under her breath.

“Maybe something related to your Dadu’s files. Or it’s just another excuse,” I said as she nodded and sat on the bed.

“If she has access to Dadu’s room… we can’t stop her. She used to keep her files in his cupboard,” she sighed.

“What if Samar is here because of those papers?” she asked, her voice full of anxiety.

I sat beside her and gently pulled her onto my lap.

“Ruh, calm down. Even if he is, he won’t find anything. And if he tries anything shady, we’ll have proof,” I whispered, brushing my hand through her hair.

“If he’s really here for that… it means Dadu knew something. Something important,” I muttered.

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“I mean… I know what to do. You just stay calm, okay? Don’t overthink,” I said softly.

“Right now, I honestly want to kill him,” she muttered.

“You look extra hot when you say things like that,” I grinned.

“Seriously? At a time like this?” she rolled her eyes.

“That chimta isn’t worth ruining our moment,” I whispered, tugging her closer by the waist. “So let’s continue what we were doing.”

“Vihaan-are you serious-“

I didn’t let her finish. I kissed her…deep and soft.

She froze for a second…then melted into me.

Her hands tangled in my hair, mine tightened around her waist. Our lips moved like they belonged together…hungry, desperate.

She was on my lap, straddling me, knees on either side, fingers tangled in my hair like I belonged to her. Actually i do.

I tilted her back slightly, deepening the kiss, one hand on her waist, the other on her neck.

And then…from the corner of my eye-I saw him. I smirked knowing very well.

Samar.

Standing at the door. Watching. Fists clenched.

Good. Let him see.

I didn’t stop. Just shifted, subtly…my back blocking his view, pulling her closer, her face tucked into my neck now, hidden.

He doesn’t get to see her like this.

Not her flushed cheeks. Not her trembling breath. Not the way she whispers my name between kisses.

This version of her? It’s only mine.

And he can rot with the knowing.

I kissed Ruh slower now. She gasped as we broke apart to breathe…right when a phone rang.

I looked at him calmly.

He was still there.

Ruh was about to turn around, but I gently turned her face away from him.

“Need something, Dr. Samar?” I asked, voice flat, smirking at him

“I was just looking for the washroom,” he mumbled, cutting the call.

“Left turn. And next time, knock. Don’t interrupt special moments,” I said deadpan, as Ruh kissed my jaw, making my point louder than words.

“Did he see everything?” she whispered, a little shocked.

“Everything. But not you,” I replied, brushing her hair back.

“You don’t know how much I love you,” she whispered and kissed my forehead softly, then stood up.

“I’ll be right back,” she said, fixing her clothes and hair.

I stepped into the hallway.

Samar had just ended a call and was pocketing his phone.

I left the room and walked toward the corridor where Samar was taking a call.
I was just about to speak when a little tornado ran toward me-Atharv.

“What happened?” I asked, kneeling down.

Kunal Bhai came right behind him.

“He is saying he is suddenly feeling uneasy, and when I asked him to take his meds, he started throwing a tantrum,” Kunal Bhai explained.

I walked ahead and crouched beside Atharv to calm him and picked him in my arms.

“It’s okay, little tornado. Take your meds, and you’ll feel better,” I smiled gently.

He nodded slowly.

That’s when I saw Samar. He had just ended his call and was slipping the phone back into his pocket when I accidentally bumped into him, making his phone fall.

Keyword: accidentally.

“Are you blind?!” he snapped, bending down to pick it up.

But before he could-

Atharv vomited. Right. On. Him.

What a Shot.

“What the hell is wrong with this kid? Are you-” he began to yell.

Kunal Bhai stepped forward and rubbed Atharv’s back protectively.

“Dont worry tornado remember he is a raccoon,” i whispered into his ear.

“Don’t you dare utter a single word about my son. I’ll chop your tongue off,” he growled, picking Atharv up and storming into his room.

I couldn’t help but I laughed.

Good job little tornado.

Samar, too busy being grossed out, didn’t even notice his phone.

I waited until he went into the washroom.

As soon as I heard the door click shut, I picked up the phone, did what I needed with a smirk, and carefully placed it right back where it had fallen.

Later, I walked into Ruh’s room.

She wasn’t there.

I went downstairs and saw her in the kitchen, quietly taking out cookies.
She always brings cookies for Atharv whenever he’s sick and throws a tantrum not taking meds.

And that’s when he entered.

“You always look so serene, Ruhanika,” Samar said, voice low, stepping dangerously close to her.

He was about to touch her.

How dare he?

Before he could-I stormed in.

Grabbed his wrist-and shoved it straight into the BOILING HOT TEA vessel.

He screamed. Loud.

“AAHHH! Are you mad?”

Ruh turned, shocked.

But I wasn’t done. I grabbed his other hand and shoved it into the same vessel.

“I warned you not to even breathe the same air as her-yet you dared to touch her,” I said, my voice low as my anger dropped like a storm breaking loose.

Some hot tea splashed onto my own hand. I felt it burn.

But did I stop?

No.

“Vihaan. Your hand,” Ruh said worriedly, rushing toward me.

Everyone came downstairs.

“Vihaan, have you gone mad? Let him go,” Bua ji shouted.

“Kunal… Stop him! Prisha, stop your brother,” she screamed.

But no one moved.

“If Vihaan is doing this, he has a damn good reason,” Kunal Bhai said calmly.

I put his hand more letting his skin of hand burn.

“Enjoying the tea, Dr. Samar?” I smirked.

“Vihaan….your hand…” Ruh gasped, grabbing mine. It was red.

Boiling patches of burn.

I didn’t care.

Bua ji pulled Samar away, “His hands are badly burnt! We need to go to the hospital!”

Ruh grabbed me.

“I will file a complaint on you, Vihaan!” she shouted, her voice trembling with both rage and worry.

Then she turned sharply to Bua Ji, her expression murderous.

“Shut The Hell Your Filthy Mouth And Get Out Of Here,” Ruh snapped, each word like a slap.

Her eyes were blazing, holding so much anger it could burn the whole damn house down.

Bua Ji stumbled back, her face pale with shock.

I have seen her getting angry this much for the first time. I gulped looking at her reaction.

“Come with me. Now,” she said, dragging me upstairs.

She opened the kit quickly.

“Why would you do something this stupid?” she asked, her voice breaking.

“If you hadn’t stopped me, I swear I would’ve burned his eyes for even looking at you like that,” I muttered, brushing her hair back.

That chimta deserves it for always looking at her like an object. Always making her feel uncomfortable.

Her hands trembled as she sat down in front of me, inspecting the red, swollen patch on my hand.

“It’s already blistering…” she whispered, almost to herself.

She grabbed a clean cloth, soaked it in cool water, and gently pressed it against the burn.

I flinched hard.

A sharp hiss escaped my lips.

She froze, “Sorry! I am sorry…”

“It’s okay,” I muttered through clenched teeth, forcing a smile.

She continued, slowly, gently…cooling the area to ease the heat. After a few minutes, she carefully patted it dry with a sterile gauze.

Then she opened the tube of silver sulfadiazine cream and applied a thin layer across the burn.

“Keep still,” she said, voice tight but soft. “It’ll sting a little.”

“It already does,” I murmured.

Ouch it hurts actually.

She started wrapping the burn with sterile gauze, her fingers delicate yet sure.

“You are never doing something like this again,” she said, suddenly jabbing her finger against my chest. “I don’t want even a single scratch on you. Not one. Not even a tiny one. Do you hear me? Did that thing even register in your brain?”

She looked beautiful in anger.

Furious. Fragile.

“Yes, Miss Oberoi,” I said, smiling through the pain.

“Tell me what did that idiot try to do?” Kunal Bhai’s voice came from behind us.

I looked up and i shrugged her shoulders, “He tried to touch her. What else was I supposed to do? Honestly, he is lucky I didn’t put his face into the tea.”

Kunal bahi’s mouth twitched, “You should have.”

He stepped forward, “Let me dress it?”

“No. I’ll do it,” she replied without even looking up.

She held my hand like it was something fragile. Sacred.

I leaned close and whispered, “it’s okay…it’s not a big deal…and Ruh… your brother is watching.”

She muttered back, “Let him see.”

My heart stuttered. I feel a weird feeling inside me.

Kunal bhai said nothing. Just stood quietly, arms crossed.

Ruh wrapped my hand with so much care, I didn’t even feel the pain anymore.

“Oh, by the way,” I added, lowering my voice with a mischievous grin, “I tapped Samar’s phone.”

“What?” Ruh asked.

“When he went to the washroom, I took his phone and installed a chip that allows us to record all his calls. He is acting too calmly. I am sure he’s going to do something soon. And when he does, we’ll have proof.

Thank God I do have that chip with me.

“You are actually smart…” Kunal bhaiya said, patting my shoulder approvingly.

Ruh smiled too, but her attention was still on my hand. She looked so cute.

“For now, get some rest,” Kunal bhaiya said. “We’ll handle the rest later.”

“Vihuu” Prisha di entered and looked at my hand.

“I’m fine, di,” I assured her. She nodded, eyes welling up.

“You can sleep in the guest room downstairs, near the kitchen,” prisha di said.

“I can just go home,” I tried to protest.

“I don’t think my sister and your sister will let you go,” Kunal bhaiya said knowingly, throwing Ruh a look, his gaze was soft.

She didn’t say a word but just looked at my wound with extra care.

He didn’t even bring up the usual ‘stay away from her’ warning.

That felt new.

“Stop worrying,” I whispered to her. “It’s just a small injury.”

“I hate it when you get hurt,” she said softly, only audible to me.

“Ruhii, sleep in my room with me. Atharv’s being cranky and he wants you also and he is scared kunal will again give him bitter meds,” prisha di muttered.

Kunal bhai just shook his head. I laughed that he was actually thrown out of the room.

“Vihaan, Mumma and Dad aren’t here. It’s my responsibility and your hand… so stay here,” she added.

“But I just need to go two steps to the house…” I tried to reason.

I mean saamne hi toh jaana hai.

“No, you are staying here,” Ruhii declared.

“Bhai, can you please be with Vihaan? Please take care of him…” she asked.

Kunal bhaiya looked shocked.

“What? No!”

“No…it’s small-” I began.

“Please… I am worried for you and if you need something kunal bhai will be there,” she said, her tone softer now.

“Okay,” I sighed, and Kunal bhaiya nodded, rolling his eyes.

“Can I borrow your laptop?” I asked her.

She nodded silently.

“Get some sleep, Ruh. I’ll just keep an eye on Samar’s calls. Don’t worry. I’ll be okay.”

“No sleep first and work tomorrow,” she replied in a strict tone.

But we all know what I’m gonna do.

“Good night and… have sweet dreams of me.”

She gave me a small smile.

I just kissed her forehead and went downstairs.

She went to Prisha di’s room, while Kunal jiju came with me.

The night of my nightmare.

Oh gosh.

Mumma and Dad where are you?

The room was quiet. I settled in, watching Samar’s contact list, waiting for him to make a move.

A knock at the door broke the silence.

I opened it to find Kunal bhaiya standing there.

“What?” I raised an eyebrow.

“Uhmm….you don’t need to stay awake alone because of all this. Sleep first,” he awkwardly muttered.

“You’re starting to like me, aren’t you, Kunal jijjuuu?” I teased.

He rolled his eyes, “No. Ruhii asked me.”

“Fine. I’ll sleep but let’s wait for Samar’s call together, “I asked him and he nodded.

And so the night passed just the two of us, waiting in silence, room filled with awkwardness.

“I have never seen my sister this angry before,” he said.

I nodded.

“Same,” I murmured under my breath.

Even I got scared seeing her this much angry.

“By the way… are we going to sleep in the same bed?” I asked, smirking.

He looked at me.

“Who said? I’ll sleep on bed and You’re going to sleep on the couch,” he said, pointing at it.

And i thought he started liking me.

I muttered some incoherent words.

“I’ll tell Ruh that-” Before I could finish, he threw my pillow and blanket onto the left side of the bed.

“Don’t you dare cross this distance,” he warned, laying down on the right side of the bed.

“How many times do I have to tell you…I am straight and not interested in old men,” I grumbled.

“I’m very much interested in your sister,” I added under my breath touching my wound which she carefully dressed.

The whole night passed, samar didn’t make any calls, but right before sunrise, he sent a single message:

“Tomorrow.”

What the hell does that even mean?

Is he planning something for tomorrow?

————————————-
Finally Chapter 67…!!!
So how was the chapter??

Your favorite scene??
Mine was the boiling hot tea 😌
Atharv vomited all over Samar 😂

Kunal bhaiya’s soul will leave his body the moment he finds out what Ruhii wants to get served 😭💀

Sorry for the late update… here are 14,300+ words 🥹

And as usual those extra details from google.

I’ll try to write within the limit next time not to bore you with such a long chapter.

Accha se votes and comments kr dena.
No kanjusi 😭

I am waiting for your comments💗

Enjoy Reading ❤️

Stay Tuned for further updates…!!

Bye Cutiepies…!!🍁

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